Internazionale coach Hector Cuper professed himself pleased with the win 1-0 win over Valencia, but the Argentinianwas not completely satisfied with his team’s performance.
A Christian Vieri goal on 14 minutes was enough to secure the victory for Inter in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie against the Spanish champions.
“I am not completely satisfied with the display but we won and that is what counts,” said Cuper.
Cuper praised the contribution of prolific striker Vieri,
“Vieri was our best player,” said Cuper.
“He performed brilliantly and ran tirelessly. His goal means that I will be able to think positively ahead of the return match.”
Valencia coach Rafael Benitez said of Inter’s approach: “They did what they had to do, they took the lead and defended it.”
“We played really well,” said Benitez.
“We did everything better than Inter, except score. We created many opportunities to score and the team proved they have the ability to reach the semi-finals.
‘We need a little luck but I am optimistic that our supporters at the Mestalla will help push us through.”
Of the second-half dismissals of Inter’s Emre and Valencia’s Albelda (both of whom will miss the second leg) Benitez stated: “It means we will play more offensively in the second leg,” said Benitez of the loss of his midfield anchor.
